Sunday, October 30, 2011

Family pizza deal $11

Papa Murphy's is that great take and bake pizza place that I love when in a pinch for an affordable meal the whole family loves. If you are in Newton, Andover or El Dorado, you can get a great deal on today's Central Ks Radar Frog:  Family size signature pizza, cheesy bread and 2 liter for $11.  This is a $21 value!  Click here to get it.

Garage Sale fundraiser

Baker's Dozen in Andover, is hosting a huge Garage Sale, Saturday, November 5th, to benefit the Children's Miracle Network.  Items are being accepted for donation during their normal business hours this week, and the sale is Saturday only from 7-4pm. 
The owner of Baker's Dozen's daughter is a Miss Kansas competitor and the one organizing the sale.
Baker's Dozen is located at Central and Andover road in the Central Plaza strip center.  Visit them on Facebook for more details.

Thursday, October 27, 2011

Consignment Furniture Shopping tips

There are always great pieces of furniture waiting to be owned at garage sales, estate sales and online through craigslist, ebay, and other websites. There's also a few consignment stores that have popped up around town with a great selection of furniture and home accessories worth checking out as well.
I spoke recently with my friend Kyle over at the Douglas Designers Consignment Gallery to get some of his advice for buying used.

 Here are some of his personal guidelines for buying consignment:

Douglas Designers Consignment Gallery
1. Buy from someone you trust. What is their knowledge of their business?  What type of standards do they have when it comes to accepting furniture for sale? What are the policies for returns or exchanges? When buying from an individual, ask them if they are okay giving you a refund should the piece not work.


2. Get some background info about the furniture in question, are you familiar with the brand?  How old is it?  What kind of home did the pieces come from... did the family have pets or smoke?  (this can be important especially if any of your family members have allergies or are sensitive to any odors.)

3. Know what your needs are. Is function most important to you? Or are style and function equally important?  Research Decorative Magazines to help identify your likes and own personal style.

Expect to pay a little more for a consigned piece of furniture versus buying from an individual.  You will pay more on average as the piece should not require any additional work or cleaning.  Expect a price range of 20-40% of original new retail.

Douglas Designers Consignment Gallery is focused on customer satisfaction and will work closely with you to make sure you get just the perfect piece for your living needs.  They are located near the corner of Douglas and Grove, across from East High school.  They are open Tuesday-Saturdays from 10-5:30.  They are also taking new consignment as well.  Call Kyle at 316-871-3700 for more details.


Check out Barefoot Skinny's experience when she visited the Douglas Designers Consignment Gallery recently, and follow Douglas Designers Consignment Gallery on Facebook.

Thanks Kyle for sharing your tips on consignment furniture shopping!

Watch for a story on my personal tips on furniture construction and how to look for quality when buying used furniture coming next week.  

Buying Used Furniture

Buying used furniture is a great way to replace a worn piece, or update your look without emptying your savings.  I love the idea of something having a little history or time worn look to it, or taking a piece with good lines and good character,  and making it new and unique by refinishing or restyling.
Here are some things to look for based on my knowledge on what to look for before purchasing.

Construction:
One important thing to look for when purchasing a sofa or other upholstered piece is determining what the frame is made of.  Lower end furniture and most furniture sold at discount retailers feature this type of furniture with frames made of soft woods.  Like Pine.  It's almost impossible to tell by looking at it what the frame is made of, but there are a couple of tricks you can do that will give you a sure clue that the frame is a "cheaper" construction.
 

   1.  Sit on it.  If it creaks, or worse yet, pops, it more than likely is made of soft wood, and possibly stapled or glued together. It also may need some extra repairs or have cracks or breaks that could not be repaired.
     2.  Lift the sofa on the end by the arm.  Then shake it from side to side.  If the rest of the sofa waves after it, then it's a weaker frame.  The fact that it is light and that you can even lift it, if you are of a small size especially, is also a huge hint.
When dealing with case goods (dressers, end tables, dining room tables), check out the drawer construction and drawer glides and/or hardware.  Is it going to take more money to replace or make it operable?  Look for real wood and dovetail joints.

Support:
What are the cushions filled with and is it intact? If it's foam, is it in good shape with no mold or smell?  If they are wrapped with another material, like batting or polyester, this is a good sign that this is a good quality piece. Pass on it if it's filled with foam peanuts or filler.  If you are in love with the piece, cushions can easily be replaced but could get pricey depending on the size and depth you would need. 

What is the support system in the frame of the piece?   This would be the inner spring system that sits within the frame.  Look for an 8-way hand-tied spring system (hour glass shaped springs that are tied to the other springs 8 directions), or sinuis coil which is a flat "s" shaped spring that is stapled onto the front and rear of the frame.  Mesh straps- no thanks if it's a sofa.
bhg.com

Check underneath dining or occasional chairs to see how the joints are fit together.  Don't want any staples here again, bolts and glue are best.

Style:
Will it fit in your home?  Do you have a "vision" or plan if it needs to be refinished or restyled?  A good deal is not a good deal if it just doesn't work or the investment goes beyond your budget or means.  

Remember to use caution when purchasing used furniture for nurseries or children's rooms. You can check for safety guidelines and recalls at cpsc.gov.  All cribs with drop-sides are now illegal to sell and resell.  Just avoid purchasing used cribs all together unless you know the age and history of the crib.

Also check out tips from The Dealista,   and Wisebread, which both had some useful information for buying and refinishing used furnishings. Also Better Homes and Gardens online has some useful information on buying furniture to reupholster and how to pick the perfect fabric.
And if you missed my recent post on buying consignment furniture, read it here.


50% off Knolla's pizza

Love this deal from LivingSocial today.  Not only is it my favorite pizza place but also voted Wichita's favorite in the recent Wichita Eagle Reader's Choice Awards.  So jump on this deal for Knolla's Pizza at 50% off!  Click here *Note that this is good only for the WEST side location on Central.


Wednesday, October 26, 2011

Orange Leaf, Potty DVD, coupons

Wear your costumes to Orange Leaf the 28th-31st and get 10% off.  Participating locations only. And don't forget to pick up your "Ounce back" card to get $1 off every $10 purchase.

Free Pull-Ups potty training DVD Free by mail.  My son loves this video, there are two sections to the DVD, one part for parents and one part for kids.  Fun songs, educational all about the potty.  Get it here.

Cool Whip is coming out with seasonal flavors..  Like them on Facebook for a coupon for $.75 off one.

Get some seasonal scents for your home.  $1 off 2 Glade 4oz jar candles. Print your coupon here.

October 30th, the Procter & Gamble Coupon insert comes out in your Sunday paper with over $100 in savings coupons. Meanwhile, make sure you order the P&G BRANDSampler Samples and Coupons here.

Also get your soup on with these coupons for Campbell's Soup products.  (via freecouponalerts.com)
Get them here.

Monday, October 24, 2011

Free samples, Michaels, Ulta, Arm & Hammer coupons

Free Biofreeze Pain Relieving Gel Sample : Awesome for muscle aches and pains.

Sample Of Truvia Natural Sweetener

10 Michaels Coupons
10 coupons for Michaels Art & Craft Stores. Exp. October 29, 2011
Print coupon for a 55% plus an extra $20 discount on anyone cournici couture custom framed piece,
10% discount on entire purchase crystallized Swarovski.

20% or 15% Ulta Coupon
Print coupon for a 20% discount on entire purchase for Rewards Members or 15% off for everyone else in store at your local Ulta beauty store. Exp. October 29, 2011

$13.50 In Coupons For Arm & Hammer Products
Cat litter, toothpaste, cleaning products



Super deal for your kids

LivingSocial Deals has a great deal today for MyGym.  Get a Lifetime Membership plus 4 free play and 4 gym sessions for $49!  My family loves MyGym for the fabulous interactive, educational experience for your kids. It's a safe, fun place for kids to get their energy out, provide a full sensory outlet and learn coordination and cooperation with others. This is a deal worth $150!!   Get it here.

Saturday, October 22, 2011

Halloween Safety and local Activities

Don't forget Halloween safety when participating in Halloween activities this year.  Here's a couple of reminders for the kids to keep it a happy event.

Wear well-fitting masks, costumes, and shoes to avoid blocked vision, trips, and falls.  If possible, avoid masks altogether and use makeup.

Look both ways before crossing the street. Use established crosswalks wherever possible.
Hold a flashlight while trick-or-treating to help you see and others see you. Always WALK and don't run from house to house, using sidewalks where ever possible.

Don't go into homes unless you are with a trusted adult. And only eat factory wrapped candy - not homemade treats.

Use caution around lit luminaries or pumpkins, long or trailing costumes could catch fire should they brush against them.  Look for flame resistant costumes when shopping.

Use reflective tape on bags and costumes, and/or carry flashlights or glow sticks for added visibility.



Avoid trick-or-treating alone. Walk in groups or with a trusted adult.

Parents:  Check your porch and outdoor light sources that all are functional and have working light bulbs. Inspect walkways and steps for hazards and clear as necessary.  Items such as garden hoses, lawn decorations, toys, bikes and landscaping could be fall hazards.

Restrain pets so they do not inadvertently jump on trick-or-treaters, or bite someone.


Want to make a weekend out of Halloween...Here's a few Wichita area things going on to help you celebrate.

Sedgwick County Zoo's Night of the Living Zoo is  the 28th, 29th and 30th, 6:30-8:30pm.  Admission is $6 for members, $8 for nonmembers, ages 2 and under are no charge.  The layout is a little different this year, but will still feature all your favorite activities and games from years past.  See more details at the website.

All Star Adventures, on East Webb Rd, has a whole weekend lined up of specials. Find discount packages for go-carts, golf, rides and tokens.  See the specials and times here.

Kidgets Malloween at Towne East Square is October 31st from 5-7pm. Wear your costume and meet at the Sears Court for free trick-or-treat bags and Dole fruit bites samples.  This is while supplies last.

Today, October 22nd, get in on some Halloween fun at Cambridge Square at 21st and Webb. An annual outdoor event with some free treats, no tricks required. ;) This is from 12-3pm.


Looking for alternative Halloween events?  Check neighborhood churches as many hold indoor events to keep kids safe.  And if you know of one in your area, please share this in the comments section!

Have a happy, fun and safe Halloween!

sources:
http://www.cdc.gov/family/halloween/
http://www.aap.org/advocacy/releases/octhalloween.cfm

Free 8x10 canvas photo, shoe carnival coupon

Have a favorite photo you love?  Make it into an art piece with this deal from Canvas People. Free 8x10 photo canvas, just pay shipping and handling.  This is a deal worth $50.

1) Choose and upload the photo you would like printed
2) Choose what size. (8x10 is free + shipping/handling after $50 credit)
3) Chose any "extras" (framing, etc.)
5) Enter shipping information
6) Pay the $14.95 shipping/handling (this is still a GREAT deal for one of these) 



It's almost boot weather, get up to an EXTRA $15 off your purchase at Shoe CarnivalPrint the coupon and bring in to your Shoe Carnival store.  There you will find out if you will save an additional $5, $10 or $15 off your purchase of $39.98 or more on top of great sale prices. Or, shop online at shoecarnival.com.  Once your total reaches $39.98, the Surprise Savings will be automatically applied at checkout.


 

Tuesday, October 18, 2011

Savings on Aroma products and Kiwi Subscription

$10 for $20 worth of products from Aroma.com.  Start your holiday shopping now as there is something for everyone with personalized care products, comfort items and original products for you or your home.  I like the knitted animal hotties- knitted animals like owls, cats, dogs that come with aroma packets that you heat in your microwave to release calming scents like lavender and chamomile.   I also think the Soothing Neck Warmers and Body Wraps would make great Christmas gifts.  Check them out on LivingSocial.

Another great gift idea, or maybe just a great gift for yourself, is a subscription to Kiwi Magazine. Family friendly tips, ideas, and more for you, your kids, and the home.  Get a year for $6 or two years for $10.  Click here to get it.

Saturday, October 15, 2011

Free Hair Cut, Style and Shampoo at Ulta

I caught this over at smartcouponing.com, tomorrow ONLY, 10/16 from 11-6pm, Ulta Beauty Salon is having a Salon Cut-A-Thon, to raise money for The Breast Cancer Research Foundation. A $10 donation is all you need to get a Free Shampoo, Cut and Style. I called one of our locations in Wichita and they are doing this here, so get there early, as it is walk-ins only and on a first come, first serve basis.

Friday, October 14, 2011

Hope and Healing, for those who believe

(This story is a repeat from a year ago, with updated information regarding times and links.)

"I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing." (John 15:5)

God has been doing so many amazing things in our church during our annual Judgement House. In case you aren't familiar with it, it is a walk-through drama portraying a tragic or dramatic situation in which the lead characters end up in either hell or heaven. It is a drama meant to make you think hard and serious about your walk with Jesus and about accepting the free gift of salvation.
The past two nights I have been volunteering in different areas. It has been an exciting and exhilarating experience so far. I have gotten to meet some great people in our church who are sacrificing their time, energy and families to be there and show their faith. These aren't people with special training, college degrees, specially blessed by some saint or priest. Most of them have never even done anything like this before. They come, eager to participate with simply amazing stories of loss, pain, frustration and then miraculous transformation at what love and trust can do with one single decision. They know something that maybe others haven't found yet, hoping to maybe make a difference for someone who may find something that they didn't realize they needed, but were looking for all along.
So hundreds of people now have been accepting this wonderful idea and letting it start to transform their lives. But this ministry, we won't take credit for it. We are acting, serving, helping and guiding tours simply as helpers to God's already perfectly laid out plans. We have seen many who seem battered, that look lost, who may appear scary or scared. There are the rejected ones, the forgotten ones, the ones who are feeling the effects of poor decisions and bad circumstances. But our job is not to judge, for no one there is claiming to be perfect, or better or smarter. We simply have something to share. Joy, hope, compassion and most importantly, love. We have opened the doors, and we simply let God do the rest.

"Be an example to all believers in what you say, in the way you live, in your love, your faith, and your purity. Until I get there, focus on reading the Scriptures to the church, encouraging the believers and teaching them."
(1 Timothy 4:12-13)


"You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you to go and bear fruit—fruit that will last. Then the Father will give you whatever you ask in my name. This is my command: 
Love each other." John 15:9-17 

Interested in Judgement House? The hours are as follows:
Wednesday, October 19, 6:30 - 9 p.m.
Thursday, October 20, 6:30 - 9 p.m.
Friday, October 21, 6:30 - 9 p.m.
Sunday, October 23, 3 - 9 p.m.
Wednesday, October 26, 6:30 - 9 p.m.
Thursday, October 27, 6:30 - 9 p.m.
Friday, October 28, 6:30 - 9 p.m.
Sunday, October 30, 3 - 9 p.m.
There are still reservations available walk-ins are welcome.
Go to Newspring.org for more information and tickets in advance.

If you are tired of trying to do it all by yourself, and getting nothing but frustration in life,  and you want to accept the free gift of salvation, all you have to do is ask. God has been there all along, just waiting for you to ask for him and his forgiveness. Ask him into your heart today, if you have been waiting, there is no better time than now.

Halloween Deals, over 10 links to coupons and 1/2 price deals

After catching up on emails, and my rss feeds, I found there are lots of Halloween deals to had out there!!  Here's what I found:



Parents Deals on Parents.com has 50% off ($30 for $15) Costumes and Dress-Up Play from Abigail's Avenue posted as a deal today.  There are some great Halloween costume options, or you could also score toys, art smocks or games. Click here to view this deal.

Go over to Kohl's.com to score Jumping Beans 2 piece Halloween PJ's for $8 today, originally $20 (60% off).  Hurry the sizes are getting limited.

$20 for two tickets for the Warehouse of Terrors haunted house in Milton, Ks.  This is from Groupon. Find Today's Daily Deal on the Best in Wichita!

Mommysavers.com has a Coupon Roundup for all places that have Halloween or are Halloween. Like Party City or Halloween Express.  Click here.

20% off one item at Spirit Halloween stores, click here to print. This is also good at the online store, see coupon for promo code.

Sign Up for emails with Halloween Express and you'll get an instant $5 to use towards an online purchase.  There is also a link here for printable retail store coupons as well.

Don't forget Hobby Lobby for their incredible 40% off coupon. These are usually only good for regularly priced items, (much of the Halloween merchandise is already on sale by now), but if you are after materials for a DIY costume, don't leave without this.

Get costume ideas, printables, free downloadable wallpaper/screensavers, sale items and coupons on candy at Target.com.

 It's an Etsy Halloween!  Check out the Halloween costumes, decor and other unique finds here

Need something sweet to celebrate?  I love "i am baker",  she has fabulous baked goodies and how to's on her page.  Like this spooky ghost cake.


Double the deal for makeup

Today's deal from Living Social is $15 for $30 worth of cosmetics from elf Makeup and Cosmetics.  Available at their online store, you can also use code BOGO50 and get buy one get one 1/2 off on orders over $20, as well as free shipping for orders over $25 until 10/17.  What a great way to maximize your deal.

half price dining, coupon site, and restaurant specials


Try the new Italian restaurant, Ciao, at The Waterfront for half price with this deal of the day from BiteHunter.com.  You can also find great deals, coupons, and a list of the current specials for national chain restaurants like Bonefish, TGI Friday's, and many fast food chains, at EatDrinkDeals.com.



Read more about how to save on your dining out bill with my tips here. 



Thursday, October 13, 2011

My new favorite deal sites...

I love the Group Deal concept, and there are lots out there now. A couple that have stood out lately are two different sites that have exactly the things that I love to splurge on for myself, and at a low price I can justify. Pick Your Plum has daily deals on crafting, ribbon, jewelry making, clothing, things to get the creative juices flowing.  Love the DIY ideas on Pinterest? Then you will probably love Pick Your Plum. Another plus, shipping is always super cheap, like $2 or $3 cheap regardless of the quanitity.

Another one I love is Groopdealz.  Boutique daily deals at a fraction of the price.  Oh I get excited every morning to open my email and see what fabulous thing they have for a super low buy.  There's no massages and golf packages on this one.  Fab jewelry, home decor and accessories, some items are as low as $3 each, and shipping just as low.  The nice thing is most items are available until sold out or at least for a couple of days.  No impulse buys required which is even more appealing as I like to think before I buy.  Check them out here.

Found any great deal sites with unique finds that get you excited?  Share them in my comments, I'd love to check them out too!

National Domestic Violence Awareness Month

October is National Domestic Violence Awareness Month.  Domestic Violence can happen to anyone, and 1 in 4 women will experience it at least once in their lifetime. Approximately 3 million women are abused by a spouse or boyfriend each year.  Three out of four people know someone who is or was a victim of domestic violence.

The first step to ending the abuse is to acknowledge that the behavior is abusive. Domestic Abuse involves name calling, controlling behavior, domination and intimidation.  It becomes Domestic Violence when there is physical violence involved.

Not exclusive to marriage relationships, Domestic Violence/Abuse can occur in a family, friendships, cohabitants and boyfriend/girlfriend relationships.  If you think you are being abused, or know someone who is, there are signs to look for.

It's most important to get help for the abused person, whether it's yourself or someone you know.  Remember that you are not alone, it is not your fault, and that there is help.  There are hotlines and organizations available to help you find help and relief.  If you are in the state of Kansas, you can go to the Kansas Coalition Against Sexual and Domestic Violence's website where there is a list for help in your city.

For more information, visit one of the websites sourced below:

domesticviolence.org
Helpguide.org
dvrc-or.org (Domestic Violence Resource Center)
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Domestic_violence




Wednesday, October 12, 2011

Waterfront fun, and Monkey Butt Poker Run

Stop in at The Waterfront, at 13th and Webb Rd, for their annual Fall Festival, Thursday, 10/13/11, from 4-8pm.  Catch special sales, giveaways, food, music, art, and more.   Go over to their Facebook page to see a preview of some of the discounts and specials that will be offered. See a listing of shops and retail spaces at their web page.

Hit the open road and enjoy a wild ride with the Sedgwick County Zoo Monkey Butt Poker Run.
Saturday, October 15th, 2011. Support one of Kansas' favorite attractions while enjoying a beautiful ride though South Central Kansas. Early registration is $20.  Click here for more info.



Friday, October 7, 2011

Saner shopping, travel deal, coupons

ShopSanity is a new tool that strives to make shopping easier. Sign up with your yahoo or gmail email accounts and you can organize and keep track of all of your online shipping notices, receipts, and receive custom notifications when a purchase you've made goes on sale, allowing you to get a price match for that item. Click here to get started.

Planning some holiday travel this year?  Act quick and get a $100 Travelocity Hotel Gift Card for $50.  Choose from over 55,000 hotels and resorts worldwide, including major chains such as Hyatt, and Marriott, Best Western and Hilton. There are no date restrictions and buy as many as you want.  Make sure you read the fine print, and check out this deal before October 12th,  here.

Don't forget to print off your coupons before you go shopping this weekend...

Thursday, October 6, 2011

Free tokens to Chuck E Cheese

October is Chucktober at Chuck E. Cheese.  Through the entire month, wear your costumes when you visit your local Chuck E. Cheese. Don’t have a costume yet? Cut out and color a Chuck E. or Helen Henny mask. Having a party? Make it a costume party with Chuck E.’s new party invitations!

Bring in the Chucktober coloring sheet and score 10 free tokens! Find these activities and more at the website.

Get slim, trim, and raise money for breast cancer

This month only, in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness month, $5 for each Body Wrap purchased from Elia Hogan, Independent Distributor for It Works!, will be donated to Breast Cancer Research.

It Works! provides professional quality beauty and wellness products at affordable prices. They offer the highest quality nutritional supplements, exclusive anti-aging solutions, and cosmetics.  The Body Wraps come in the tightening, toning Ultimate Body Wrap, and the hydrating, anti-aging Chin and Neck, and Facial wraps. Results are seen in as little as 45 minutes.

For every $100 (20 wraps) raised for the Cure there will be a drawing from all that purchased a wrap to give away an additional wrap as well as a sample of Defining Gel. 


Visit the website for more information, and make sure to ask Elia about the Business Opportunity should you be looking for supplemental income to make from home. 
To purchase, send payment via paypal to eliaf@mail.com or send cash or check to
1966 w concho ave San Angelo, TX 76901. Item will ship once payment is received.
Just email (or include in the envelope if mailing a check) their name, address, phone number, email address and what wraps you are purchasing. No matter how many wraps you purchase shipping is only $4. (eliaf@mail.com)


This post was not a paid or sponsored post.

Wednesday, October 5, 2011

$5 for Kohl's, $2 Halloween tote, Free Personal Organizer

Sign up for Kohl's emails and get $5 off your next purchase and 10% off your next Kohls.com purchase.  (Via Thrifty Wifey) Click here


$2 Halloween Tote Bag and Other Halloween Goodies! Vistaprint’s $2 Halloween Tote sale is the perfect time to stock up on trick-or-treat bags and other Halloween items! Your children will love having their own custom bags and for only $2 you can afford to indulge them! Perfect for trick-or-treaters to tote their loot. Enjoy 60% off the list price when you order 2-5 totes. 

Save 30% or more on the following Halloween products:
  • Invitations and Announcements: Save 50% on personalized Halloween greetings and unique Invitations! With over 50 unique designs, you’re sure to find some bewitching.
  • Lawn Signs and Banners: Is your house the trick-or-treat destination for miles around? Hoping to step up your spooks this year? Customize a lawn sign or banner that will make quite the impression on your visitors.
  • Stickers: Decorate your treats with personalized stickers! Perfect for party favors.
  • T-Shirts: Get in the Halloween spirit with a Halloween t-shirt. Designs range from spooky to adorable to funny.  
FREE Shipping when you spend $20!


AboutOne is a free Digital Personal Organizer.  Secure, fast and easy it's a place to store all your important info as it happens. Accessible from your computer or web-enabled device, view and enter important information when you need it most: birth of a child, changing doctors, or moving.
Create family mailing lists, scrapbooks, caregiver instructions, and information about your possessions, contacts, education and health records.  Click here to visit AboutOne.

 


Home depot savings club

Get special savings from Home Depot when you sign up for their savings  newsletter.  If you like to garden, you may also want to register for their Garden Club for coupons, gardening advice and special offers. (click the banner to get the Garden Club emails)









This is a sponsored post, your clicks support my page. Thank you!

Monday, October 3, 2011

Free Wendy's cheeseburger

Wendy's is rolling out new Hot 'n Juicy Cheeseburgers.  You can try one for FREE with any small drink and small fries purchase.  Click here for a printable coupon.